In 1999, American Football released it’s self-title album that was the start of something majestically beautiful. Sadly, the band disbanded before another album could be fathomed, but what came of it was Mike Kinsella recording and performing as Owen. Mike Kinsella(Owen) even released a cover of “Never meant” onNear and Far Vol. 1, The Rutabega/Owen Split. Although another album is not in the works, American Football’s self-title album is a landmark album and should be enjoyed again and again.

The Details

In the 15 years since its release, American Football's self-titled debut full-length has quietly become one of the most fiercely beloved titles in the Polyvinyl catalog. Though the trio -- Mike Kinsella (Cap'n Jazz, Owen, Owls), Steve Lamos, and Steve Holmes -- only played a few shows and released just one other record (a three-song EP that preceded this full-length), their influence and legacy has steadily continued to grow in the time after they disbanded.

From its now iconic artwork to the band's unique songwriting approach (highlighted by an emphasis on shifting time signatures and sincere lyrics), American Football proves a record doesn't become a true classic through flashiness or catering to trends, but rather the deep emotional connection it forges between the music and the listener.

After guitarist Steve Holmes discovered a set of cassette tapes containing a variety of unreleased recordings, the band curated an album's worth of these rare live recordings, demos, and practice sessions (in which the group rehearsed material they never recorded elsewhere) to complement the original record.

Now available on 2xLP and 2xCD, American Football is being re-issued with beautifully expanded packaging that incorporates new photographs from Chris Strong along with lyrics, detailed liner notes written by the band, and never-before-seen band pictures.